Two RI schools win awards for being green

Tuesday

Apr 22, 2014 at 2:38 PM

The U.S. Department of Education announced Tuesday that two Rhode Island schools have won 2014 Green Ribbon School awards: the Claiborne Pell Elementary School in Newport, and The Greene School, a public charter school in West Greenwich.

Linda Borg Journal Staff Writer @lborgprojocom

The U.S. Department of Education announced Tuesday that two Rhode Island schools have won 2014 Green Ribbon School awards.

They are the Claiborne Pell Elementary School in Newport, and The Greene School, a public charter school in West Greenwich.

The Pell School was recognized for its design features, such as reflective roof materials, low-velocity ventilation system and optimal daylight. In addition, the school was recognized for its environmental and outdoors program including the garden-to-table initiative and a fitness assessment program for youth.

The Greene School was honored in part because of its focus on environmental literacy. Teachers deliver the majority of the curriculum through environmental topics that are focused on energy, biodiversity and sustainable development. Students also learn through multidisciplinary “learning expeditions,” such as the 100 Mile Radius Dinner, which culminates in a meal prepared with local foods.

“I am pleased that the United States Department of Education has once again recognized our schools for excellence in building design, energy conservation and our ongoing work toward making Rhode Island a leading state when it comes to environmental protection and instruction,” Governor Chafee said.

“Just as we want our school buildings to be energy-efficient and to have minimal impact on the environment, we also want our students to learn from their first years in school how to understand, respect, and protect the environment,” said Eva-Marie Mancuso, chairwoman of the Board of Education. “This process is well under way in many of our communities, and I commend the students, teachers, and community members in Newport as well as the Greene School community for their commitment to environmental awareness and to excellent school design and construction.”